Chiropractors

What can you expect as a new patient at Fraser Chiropractic & Massage? While if it moves and it hurts we can probably deliver relief!

As chiropractors we do not just fix backs, and as registered massage therapists we do not just make you feel good. (Although we certainly do those things.) Rather, we are here to restore the proper function of your nerves, muscles, and joints (i.e. your neuro-musculo-skeletal system) and thereby reduce or
eliminate pain.

Generally you will have three reasons to visit us:
1. Injury to the muscles or joints (i.e. you know what caused it)
2. Muscle and or joint pain of no specific origin (i.e. it’s generally a mystery cause)
3. Prevention and or maintenance of nerve/muscle/joint dysfunction.

Did you know its normal for human beings to experience pain? In normal life everyone gets mystery pains. For example, in any one year approximately 30% of the population experiences headaches. That sounds rather commonplace does it not.

Does this routine pain mean we are sick or ill? No, not typically. It just means we need normal maintenance. Just like a car we need fairly regular tune-ups, unless we sustain an injury.

Chiropractic manipulation and massage are just necessary components of maintaining optimal human function. They are as natural as a bird cleaning its feathers or a cat licking its fur. But unlike those animals, we humans need to take care of each other.

Without getting into technicalities, suffice it to say that high velocity chiropractic manipulation acts to restore muscle function and reduce tension, as well as to restore joint mobility. Both act to reduce pain
and improve function.

Massage acts to break up chronic muscle tension and to reduce physical stress held within the body, thereby reducing pain and improving function.

Does it hurt?

High velocity chiropractic manipulation does not typically hurt. Sometimes if the tissue is extremely irritated or the patient resists, brief and sharp pain can result. Muscle reflex manipulation is almost always painless and noiseless. High velocity joint manipulation creates a crack or pop (technically a
cavitation which is just an air bubble) which does not hurt but can surprise or shock some patient’s especially the first time.

Any sort of deep tissue therapy or massage can create pain, depending on the chronicity and resistance of the tissue. Some pain may be necessary for recovery, but the therapist will aim to keep it to a manageable level. Light massage for stress release normally will create no significant pain.

How long will it take?

Routine chiropractic care will usually take 3 to 5 visits. Serious injuries due to trauma or degeneration can take considerably more and varies greatly depending on the situation. Massage therapy is similar. Furthermore, many people see massage every 1-2 months for maintenance in help dealing with the chronic buildup of stress and tension. While predicting the length of care can be tricky, be assured we at Fraser Chiropractic &amp; Massage pride ourselves on getting you better as quickly as possible.

How long is a visit?

Your first visit with a chiropractor is typically 20 to 30 minutes. During the first visit we need more time to get to know you and understand your issues. On subsequent visits the treatments typically last 10 to 15 minutes. This can be longer in certain special situations. Chiropractic is fee for service and times are always approximate. We give you whatever time is necessary to treat you and get you progressing. Massage therapy is fee for time and the first visit is always an hour. Subsequent visits are 30, 45, 60 or 90 minutes. The vast majority of people choose 1 hour appointments and find that the most satisfactory.